Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not just a meal—it’s an experience! Imagine a plate filled with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all enhanced by the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. This dish promises to impress anyone who tries it, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Why Make This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
You should consider making this dish because of its delightful blend of flavors. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, creating a comforting meal that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a burst of flavor, making each bite memorable. Plus, it’s a great recipe to impress someone special—you might just get a marriage proposal after sharing it! In under 30 minutes, you can put together a meal that looks as great as it tastes!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Making this dish is straightforward and fun! With just a few steps, you will create a restaurant-quality pasta dish in your kitchen. Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped before you begin cooking, and follow along with these easy directions.
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless, sliced thinly
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, for searing
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/3 cup, chopped
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional for spice)
- Pasta: 8 oz, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
- Fresh Basil: For garnish
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Then add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir well to coat the chicken in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it’s just right.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything evenly. Let it cook together for another minute to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Marry Me Chicken Pasta (approximately 1/4 of the recipe) contains:
- Calories: 675
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 42g
Note: Nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta is best served warm, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a romantic dinner, set the table with candles and enjoy a glass of white wine alongside your dish. It’s also perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends!
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help bring back the creamy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Pasta Cooking: Make sure not to overcook your pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Ingredient Substitution: You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce or replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood version.
- Addition of Veggies: Feel free to toss in some spinach or kale for an added nutritional boost. Just add it to the sauce a minute or two before serving so it wilts slightly.
Delicious Variations
- Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Basil: Add fresh basil into your sauce before serving for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Chicken Pasta: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick or add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the garlic.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results. You may need to adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. What can I use if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use diced fresh tomatoes or omit them altogether, though you may miss some of the dish’s signature flavor.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best freshly made, you can prep the ingredients (slice chicken, chop garlic and tomatoes) in advance. Cook it just before serving for optimal freshness.
Conclusion
The Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that’s sure to charm anyone who tries it. Its creamy sauce, flavorful chicken, and satisfying pasta create a comforting meal suitable for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to give this wonderful dish a try—it might just become a new favorite! Share your experience in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!